How To Sign Car Title in California
To sign a car title in California, follow these steps:
1. Fill out the “Seller” section on the front of the title. Provide your full name, address, and the date of sale. Make sure to sign your name exactly as it appears on the title.
2. If there is a co-owner listed on the title, they must also sign in the “Seller” section.
3. Fill out the “Buyer” section on the front of the title. Provide the buyer’s full name and address. If there are multiple buyers, all parties must sign and print their names.
4. If there is a lienholder listed on the title, they must complete the “Release of Interest” section on the back of the title. This section should include the lienholder’s name, address, and signature.
5. Provide the buyer with a completed Bill of Sale, which includes the vehicle’s make, model, year, VIN, purchase price, and the signatures of both the buyer and seller.
6. Remove the license plates from the vehicle. In California, license plates stay with the owner, not the vehicle.
7. Complete a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (REG 138) form. This form notifies the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that you have sold the vehicle. You can submit this form online or mail it to the DMV within 5 days of the sale.
8. Give the buyer the signed title, Bill of Sale, and any other required documents.
Remember to keep copies of all documents for your records. It is also recommended to consult the California DMV website or visit a local DMV office for any specific requirements or updates.
How To Transfer Car Title in California
To transfer a car title in California, follow these steps:
1. Obtain the necessary documents: You will need the current car title, a completed Application for Transfer of Title (Form REG 343), a smog certification (if applicable), a bill of sale (if the vehicle is less than 10 years old), and a Release of Liability form (Form REG 138).
2. Complete the Application for Transfer of Title: Fill out all the required information on Form REG 343, including the vehicle identification number (VIN), the current mileage, and the buyer’s information.
3. Complete the Release of Liability form: Fill out Form REG 138 to release yourself from any liability associated with the vehicle after the sale.
4. Obtain a smog certification: If the vehicle is more than four years old, you will need to provide a smog certification. Ensure that the vehicle passes the smog test before proceeding.
5. Complete a bill of sale: If the vehicle is less than 10 years old, you must provide a bill of sale that includes the purchase price and the buyer and seller’s information.
6. Visit the DMV: Take all the required documents to your local California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. You may need to make an appointment in advance due to long wait times.
7. Pay the necessary fees: You will need to pay the transfer fee, use tax (if applicable), and any other applicable fees. The DMV will provide you with the exact amount.
8. Submit the documents: Hand over all the required documents to the DMV representative. They will verify the information and process the transfer of title.
9. Obtain the new title: Once the transfer is complete, you will receive a new car title in the buyer’s name. Make sure to keep a copy for your records.
10. Notify the insurance company: Inform your insurance company about the sale and provide them with the buyer’s information. This will ensure a smooth transition of coverage.
Remember, these instructions are specific to California, and the process may vary slightly in other states. It’s always a good idea to check with your local DMV for any additional requirements or specific procedures.
How To Replace Car Title in California
To replace a lost car title in California, you will need to follow these steps:
1. Obtain the Application for Duplicate or Transfer of Title (Form REG 227): You can download this form from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website or visit a local DMV office to pick up a physical copy.
2. Complete the form: Fill out all the required information on the form, including your personal details, vehicle information, and reason for requesting a duplicate title.
3. Provide identification: You will need to provide a valid California driver’s license or identification card to prove your identity.
4. Pay the fee: There is a fee associated with obtaining a duplicate title. As of 2021, the fee is $22. However, it is always a good idea to check the current fee on the DMV website or contact your local DMV office for the most accurate information.
5. Submit the application: Once you have completed the form and gathered all the necessary documents, you can submit your application by mail or in person at a local DMV office. If mailing, send the completed form and fee payment to the address specified on the form.
6. Wait for processing: After submitting your application, it may take several weeks for the DMV to process your request and issue a duplicate title. You can check the status of your application online through the DMV website.
7. Receive the duplicate title: Once your application is approved, you will receive a duplicate title in the mail. Make sure to keep it in a safe place.
Note: If there are any liens on the vehicle, you may need additional documentation or authorization from the lienholder to obtain a duplicate title.